Coach: Sara Thurston (fifth year)
Conference: MVC; Class: C
Last year’s record: 11-6, lost in Western C quarterfinals
Returning athletes: Seniors — Mariah Lafleur (UT), Kenzie Lord (C), Katelyn Olsen (P), Emma Lueders (3b/SS), Ellie Jasper (1b/2b), Summer Bradbury (UT); Juniors — Brittany Greig (OF), Alexis Theriault (UT).
Key losses: Megan Bradbury (C), Kelsey Hutchins (OF), Kaitlin Morang (OF), Gabby Scott (Inf/OT), Ellen Wainwright (P/UT).
Promising newcomers: Senior Anna Morrow (UT); Juniors — Nicole Whitman (UT), Becca Dailey (UT/P), Maddie DeGroot (UT), Amber Ferris (UT); Sophomore — Carly Trimm (UT/P); Freshmen — Ashley Perreault (T/P), Sophie Jacques (UT/P), Gabby White (UT), Alexa Varnum (UT), Lillie Williams (UT).
Season outlook: The Cougars lost a number of veteran players from last year’s squad but still have Olsen back in the circle and Lord behind the plate. Lueders is a standout in the infield. Dirigo could have a versatile team and hope to be among the better teams in the MVC.
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